Xabi Alonso’s 3-4-2-1 system shone on Saturday afternoon as Chelsea cruised to a 3-0 lead in 46 minutes before going on to win 5-1 at Stamford Bridge against Bournemouth. Palmer and Rogers were a constant threat behind João Pedro, Henderson and Caicedo provided steel in midfield, and the wing-backs supplied width and intensity, contributing to five goals from ten shots in total.
However, beneath the surface, some issues emerged. Bournemouth won the expected goals battle 1.46 to 1.08 (Sofascore), and entered the final third 67 times to Chelsea’s 39. Alonso’s men concede too easily and have not kept a single clean sheet in six matches this season. Below, we discuss what the Spaniard did right, and where his system is vulnerable.
What Alonso Got Right
Chelsea’s relentless start set the tone, as Palmer burst into the box to create Henderson’s goal in two minutes. Rogers made it 2-0 within a minute, and Bournemouth struggled to break down Chelsea’s well-organised, perfectly timed press for long stretches in the first half.
The front three interchanged brilliantly, and six of the seven attackers and midfielders on show recorded a goal or assist. Palmer, Rogers and João Pedro were unplayable, combining with terrifying efficiency to torment a confused Bournemouth backline. Neto and Chavarría provided perfect wing-back service and laid on the assists.
Henderson and Caicedo provided the perfect balance to the attack: Henderson completed 52 of 61 passes, and Caicedo won seven duels. Palmer’s clever dummy around the free kick set up Henderson’s thirty-yard strike, the pick of a masterclass from the Spaniard and his staff, and five goals from ten shots was a statement of intent from the attacking triumvirate.
What Alonso Got Wrong
Defensively, Alonso’s three-man system leaves them exposed on set pieces and in open play. Bournemouth enjoyed 67 entries into the final third and seven corners to Chelsea’s one, and Evanilson scored from a corner. Chelsea have now conceded 13 league goals in six matches, which is a concern.
The left-hand side was exploited, as 47% of Bournemouth’s attacks targeted Rayan against Chavarría. Rayan forced a smart save from Martínez after drifting away from Lacroix, and the Brazilian’s movement troubled a back three unsure who to mark.
Finally, game management is an issue, as Bournemouth spent 37% of the second half inside Chelsea’s defence by the 66th minute. The hosts should have killed the game after leading 3-0, and Alonso’s men will be concerned about their lack of defensive steel before the visit of Everton.